Inclusive Sports: WIN Project Kicks Off Across WA
Too many people with disability still feel left out of their local sports clubs. But that’s about to change as the WIN Project is set to kick off! Through the Welcoming Inclusive Network (WIN) Project, we will work with 25 sporting clubs from across Western Australia, supporting them to become more inclusive and welcoming of people with disability!
According to Inclusion Consultant Adam Popham, an increasing number of sports clubs are realising the importance of disability inclusion and want to improve, but end up feeling overwhelmed:
“Sports clubs play a huge role in our local communities and allow people to live a good life, but unfortunately, people with disability often feel excluded. Even though people with disability really want to engage more in sport, taking that first, second or third step to getting involved in community sport can be really intimidating and challenging”.
“Sports clubs are starting to realise the immense value that people with disability bring as members and volunteers. The will to implement more inclusive practices is there, but it’s often difficult to know where to start or what to prioritise. That’s where the WIN Project comes in”.
Through the WIN Project, clubs will meet with Inclusion Solutions’ consultants and receive in-person support, guidance and feedback to help them work through a carefully designed disability inclusion assessment framework. Clubs will also get access to resources to support their development.
“Our disability inclusion assessment framework is developed and codesigned together with people with disability, ensuring that every pillar reflects lived experience and real barriers faced by the community.”
The disability inclusion assessment framework is also a valuable tool in pinpointing areas of improvement.
Once a club is ready, it will be assessed on its progress, and if it meets set standards, it will be awarded the WIN Badge, a first-of-its-kind disability sports accreditation.
The following 13 clubs are part of the WIN Project and will be supported to become a disability friendly sports club:
- South Mandurah Tennis Club
- Mandurah Volleyball Association
- Bunbury Pickleball Association
- Rockingham City Football Club
- Safety Bay Tennis Club
- Kardinya Bowling Club
- Coolbinia West Perth Cricket Club
- Forrestfield United FC
- UWA Hockey Club
- Margaret River Horse and Pony Club
- Mount Barker Amateur Swimming Club
- Inglewood Athletics
- Kingsway Athletics
By building inclusive practices at the grassroots level, the WIN Project not only creates better access for people with disability, but it also strengthens community ties, boosts club participation, and sets a new standard for inclusive sports in Western Australia.
Learn more about the WIN Project and how we work to foster more disability friendly sports clubs. We also offer individualised training opportunities to local community and sports clubs to support inclusive sports in Western Australia.
